Winter diaries: Health woes

Buckle up against the changing weather with these speedy cold and flu remedies

The temperature is dropping, as is your resistance to the common cold and flu that accompanies winter. Try as you might — there is just no escaping the vagaries of the October weather and with almost everyone coughing and sneezing, you’re even more likely to catch a cold or develop flu. But while there is no exact cure for either virus, you can make the experience less agonising and speed-up your recovery by knowing what to do when the big bad bug knocks you down.

According to Dr Bushra Jamil, an internal medicine and infectious diseases specialist at the Aga Khan University Hospital, the first step to a cure is recognising whether you are suffering from cold or flu.

The Common Cold

“The common cold has no serious implications as such,” explains Dr Jamil. “It occurs due to the inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, leading to a runny nose, sneezing and sore throats.” The cold may be a temporary lapse in otherwise healthy bodily function, the coughing and wheezing can get annoying and therefore, need to be fixed. Dr Jamil prescribes the following ways to beat the common cold:

•  Stock up on medicine: It is advisable to invest in an adequate supply of cold medicine right around the time the weather starts to change. Anti-allergies taken at the first symptoms of a cold can nip it in the bud.

•  Indulge in fluids and warm foods: Heard of the saying ‘Feed the cold and starve the fever?’ That is exactly what you should do to clear your sinuses. Water, for instance, boosts the expulsion of mucous from the throat. Warm milk is a great comfort for an aching, sore throat but produces more phlegm in the lungs. Some people also resort to orange juice and other foods rich in Vitamin C it is believed to cure the virus. Bear in mind that too much of anything can make you sicker, even if it’s just water!

•  Listen to your body: You may continue your daily routine as per normal but do not over-exert yourself. If you are feeling more drained than normal, take some rest.

•  Handle with care: A cold is the most contagious when your nose is the runniest and it is important to follow respiratory etiquettes and avoid infecting others. When infected, carry a packet of tissues with yourself and dispose them off immediately after use. Washing hands with anti-bacterial soap or even alcohol-based hand sanitisers is important as germs are transferrable via touch.  Some health experts even recommend sneezing into the crook of your elbow rather than hands to prevent the cold from spreading.

Foods that fight the cold

•  Fish

•  Garlic

•  Citrus fruits

•  Yogurt

•  Tea

•  Red peppers

•  Mushrooms

•  Leafy greens

• Dark chocolate

• Carrots

• Oats

The Flu Blues

Influenza, popularly known as flu, knocks you down much harder than a cold. “The flu infects our respiratory system much deeper and can be a cause of concern if the body temperature constantly rises, increasing the risk of pneumonia or even death,” explains Dr Jamil. Fever and aching muscles are some of the ailments brought on by flu. According to Dr Jamil, “Warm, tropical countries like Pakistan don’t have a specific period during which the flu is at its peak.” Therefore, getting vaccinated against flu can go a long way, especially for smokers, expecting mothers and patients with chronic diseases like diabetes. So the next time you are down with flu, try these easy home-based remedies and bounce right back!

•  Hydration is key: A bowl of warm chicken soup is great during flu as it not only keeps you hydrated but the chicken helps maintain energy levels as well. Coconut water can also relieve symptoms of flu.

•  Slow and steady wins the race: Typically, flu has a three-day recovery period but your body still needs at least a week to revive itself completely. Therefore, it is advisable to cut down on excessive activity during the illness, at least until you have completed the course of your medication. Remember that your inner immune system works less effectively when you are tired so unnecessary stress and exertion will only make you feel worse. You may take some pain-killers to relieve stress if need be.

•  After the flu: Monitor your health for a few days following the illness. If symptoms persist, see your doctor immediately.

Symptoms of flu

•  Cough or sore throat

•  Blocked or runny nose

•  Headaches and/or body aches

•  Fatigue

•  A fever of 100 degrees or higher

•  Diarrhea

•  Nausea and vomiting

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, October 26^th, 2014.